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How to Craft Your Essay for the Ilene Sharon Saval Scholarship
By Daur, ScholarshipTop founder and scholarship data reviewer
Reviewed by ScholarshipTop editorial review · Published Apr 21, 2026 · Updated Apr 26, 2026
ScholarshipTop editorial guide. Writing guidance does not guarantee eligibility, selection, or award payment.
Understanding the Prompt
Before you begin drafting your essay for the Ilene Sharon Saval Scholarship, take time to understand what the scholarship committee values. This scholarship aims to support students attending the University of Massachusetts Amherst, so your essay should reflect your commitment to your education and how it aligns with your future goals.
Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets
Organize your thoughts by considering the four material buckets: Background, Achievements, The Gap, and Personality.
- Background: Reflect on experiences that have shaped your educational journey. Consider family influences, personal challenges, or pivotal moments that motivated your academic pursuits.
- Achievements: List significant accomplishments, focusing on metrics and outcomes. Think about leadership roles, projects, or initiatives where you made a measurable impact.
- The Gap: Identify what you still need to achieve your goals. Explain how further study at UMass Amherst will bridge this gap and enhance your capabilities.
- Personality: Infuse your essay with personal anecdotes that reveal your values and character. Specific stories will help the committee see you as a well-rounded individual.
Outline Your Essay
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Creating a structured outline can help you organize your thoughts logically. Start with an engaging introduction that sets the scene or presents a compelling moment from your life. Follow with body paragraphs that delve into each of the four buckets, ensuring each paragraph focuses on a single idea. Conclude with a strong closing that reiterates your commitment to your education and future goals.
Drafting Voice and Style
When drafting your essay, use an active voice to convey your experiences and insights. Avoid clichés and vague statements; instead, be specific about your achievements and aspirations. Ensure that every paragraph transitions smoothly to the next, maintaining a clear narrative flow.
Revision and “So What?” Reflection
After drafting, take a step back and review your work critically. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each section. Reflect on what changed in you through your experiences and why that matters to your future. This reflection will strengthen your narrative and demonstrate your growth.
Pitfalls to Avoid
Be mindful of common pitfalls in scholarship essays:
- Avoid starting with clichés or generic statements. Instead, begin with a specific moment or insight.
- Steer clear of empty superlatives; support your claims with concrete examples.
- Do not use passive voice when an active subject exists. This will make your writing more engaging and direct.
- Ensure all facts and experiences are authentic and verifiable; do not invent details.
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